Beginning of Autumn (立秋) | When the Seasons Change, Hope Continues to Grow

There is a Chinese saying:"One leaf heralds the arrival of autumn."

The Beginning of Autumn (立秋, Liqiu) is the thirteenth of the twenty-four solar terms in the traditional Chinese calendar. Although the heat of summer often lingers, Liqiu marks a quiet turning point in the rhythm of the year. The days gradually shorten, the light softens, and nature begins preparing for the season of harvest.

It is not a dramatic change, but a gentle reminder that every new chapter often begins almost unnoticed.

For centuries, Liqiu has carried deep cultural significance in China. It has been a time to welcome the coming harvest, appreciate the abundance of nature, and look ahead with renewed hope. Families have long gathered to share seasonal foods, celebrate the changing landscape, and give thanks for the fruits of the year's labour.

Beyond agriculture, Liqiu also invites reflection.

It reminds us that growth is rarely instant. Seeds planted months earlier become fields ready for harvest. Relationships built patiently over time become sources of trust and understanding. Quiet acts of kindness, often unnoticed in the moment, can eventually transform lives.

These ideas resonate deeply with the work of The Mothers' Bridge of Love.

Every family searching for answers, every adoptee exploring their roots, every volunteer offering support, and every conversation that bridges different cultures begins with a single step. Progress is often gradual, shaped by patience, compassion and perseverance rather than dramatic moments alone.

Throughout the year, MBL has been privileged to witness many such journeys. Families have found long-awaited connections. Adoptees have shared stories of identity, belonging and hope. Volunteers and partners from around the world have come together through dialogue, cultural exchange and shared purpose.

Each story reminds us that bridges are not built overnight.

Like the changing of the seasons, meaningful understanding develops steadily—through listening, learning and walking alongside one another.

Liqiu also reminds us that every harvest begins with hope.

While autumn is traditionally associated with gathering the fruits of past efforts, it is equally a season for planting the seeds of future possibilities. Every conversation that encourages empathy, every opportunity to preserve cultural heritage, and every act of support for children and families lays the foundation for tomorrow's connections.

At The Mothers' Bridge of Love, we remain committed to creating opportunities for people from different backgrounds to meet with openness, curiosity and respect. Through adoption dialogue, cultural programmes, educational initiatives and community partnerships, we hope to continue building bridges that span not only countries and languages, but also hearts.

As the seasons quietly turn once again, may Liqiu inspire us all to pause, reflect and appreciate how far we have come, while looking forward with confidence to the journeys still ahead.

May this new season bring peace to every family, strength to every community, and hope to everyone searching for connection.

Happy Beginning of Autumn. May the bridges we build today continue to grow stronger in every season.